High School Placement Test (HSPT) Practice Test

Which term refers to an insect that commonly bothers horses?

1. ant

2. tick

3. fly

4. beetle

The correct answer is: fly

The term that refers to an insect commonly found bothering horses is "fly." Flies are notorious for their presence around horses, especially in warmer weather when they become a nuisance by buzzing around and sometimes biting, which can lead to discomfort for the animals. This interaction is particularly significant because it can affect a horse's health and behavior, making them agitated and less willing to perform or work properly. In comparison, while ticks and beetles may also interact with horses, they are not as commonly associated with causing persistent annoyance. Ticks generally attach to the animal's body for feeding and may pose a health risk, but they don't typically "bother" horses in the same way that flies do. Beetles, on the other hand, are not known for their direct interaction with horses and are less frequently mentioned in the context of pests that cause annoyance to these animals. Ants, while they can be abundant, do not usually pose a significant problem for horses in the same manner. Thus, "fly" is the most accurate choice as it directly relates to the typical annoyance experienced by horses.